How should someone go about deciding what style and engine size of motorcycle is actually right for them?

“Stop looking at the spec sheets and go sit on the bikes. If you can’t comfortably walk the bike in a driveway, it’s too big for you. Everyone wants the 1000cc rocket because it looks cool, but if you’re a beginner, that bike is just going to scare you. You’ll never learn how to actually ride if you’re terrified of the throttle. Start on something you can handle, learn the fundamentals, then move up when you’ve actually earned it.”